Over the last few years, the meaning of marriage has changed to better fit the needs and values of couples today. And it starts with the way you get married. 

Let’s answer the basics of eloping: what is an elopement, what makes it different from a wedding, and why you should have one. 

What is an elopement?: The new perspective

Simply put: an elopement is when two people marry each other in a private ceremony, with no or just a few guests. In years past, this often meant little planning and a somewhat secretive setting. But in recent years, those negative connotations have been replaced with a more intimate understanding of why people elope.

There has been a sweeping realization that elopements are an opportunity to marry your partner in a way that can be completely authentic to your relationship — all without the pressures and conventions of traditional weddings. 

Wedding vs elopement: the differences + why they matter

What comes with the wedding

Whereas an elopement is an intimate ceremony that can take on a variety of settings, moods, or structures, weddings follow a more traditional framework. Typically, standard weddings emphasize the connection to community and tradition. Featuring a big party at a designated venue and any number of traditions, weddings celebrate your relationship with a much larger scale and emphasis on your guests. 

While a wedding can be just as meaningful, it is also attached to a lengthy list of expectations and pressures. Whether from your family, friends, or society in general, these expectations may limit how you can authentically honor your commitment to each other. 

How eloping is different

Rather than following a seemingly prescripted list of procedures and expectations others have made, you get to write the script for your elopement — from scratch. Whatever you dream of can be part of your elopement. 

For many, this approach feels more authentic to their relationship, as well as a more intentional way to celebrate their commitment to each other. With an elopement, you can decide the who, what, when, where, and why — all with little to no limitations. 

The reasons for eloping (and why you should consider them)

Carving your own path

One of the most notable reasons for eloping is defining your own traditions. It is easy to see why so many couples are ready to reject the status quo in weddings — many of the practices feel outdated, it may not represent your shared values, or it may just not feel true to you or your vision. An elopement is all about starting your own traditions and establishing your own meaning, all while experiencing the things that bring you closer together as a couple.

Intimacy + privacy

The commitment that you are making to each other is no small decision. And nor should you hold back from experiencing every range of emotion together while you share these meaningful vows. For many, the idea of sharing these feelings in front of dozens (if not hundreds) of people with a large ceremony is simply too much. With an elopement, it can be just the two of you, freely sharing these feelings and promises. (If you prefer not to be the center of attention, eloping is the option for you.)

Adventure, nature + travel

Although not all elopements have to be adventure elopements, many couples choose to elope because they simply feel called to the great outdoors. If you prefer to spend your vacations exploring untouched terrain or trekking through rugged landscapes, an adventure elopement can combine all of your favorite things into one. Or maybe there is a destination that you both dream of visiting. Eloping might be the perfect opportunity to do so (and then start the honeymoon right away!) This can also fit into a broader commitment to spontaneity and embracing the adventure you are about to embark on together.

Less stress, planning + drama too

Since elopements can consist of simply a gorgeous view, an officiant, and each other, the need for months of planning, coordination, and stress is eliminated. For some, the idea of planning every little detail and dealing with family dynamics can cause a lot of anxiety. For others, the piling expenses of a wedding can feel unnecessary and frivolous. With an elopement, you get to completely forget all of those stress-inducing details and simply savor the moment together. 

The pros + cons to eloping

While the list of reasons to elope can go on and on, we’ve gathered a skimmable list of the pros and cons of eloping to make this decision an easy one.

Pros of eloping	Cons of eloping
Experience-focused More intimate Countless location options Centered on you and your relationship No required traditions or frameworks Shape the experience how you want  Can be as long or as short as you want Less planning More cost-effective	Limited guest list Less in-person support Fewer gifts and celebrations Some loved ones may feel left out Expect the unexpected Missing out on traditions

More elopement resources

• An Elopement Checklist For Every Vendor You Need
• Unique Wedding Elopement Ideas You’ll Love
• How To Have A National Park Elopement

Now think: what is an elopement for you? 

But you don’t have to decide all on your own. As elopement photographers, we love helping couples enjoy an elopement that is authentic to them. You can come to us with as little as a general location idea (like “We want to elope in the mountains!”), and we can point you in the right direction. But that’s just the start – we provide everything from custom location lists and elopement activity ideas, to permit assistance and packing lists, to an in-depth elopement guide and elopement vendor recommendations. All you have to do is send us a note.